An American Indian tribe says its plan to build a casino in a remote part of Martha's Vineyard is about providing "economic self-sufficiency" to its some 1,200 members.

But not all visitors are convinced the Aquinnah Wampanoag (ah-KWIN'-uh wahm-puh-NOH'-ag) tribe's proposal fits with the character of the island, with its quaint towns, soft sand beaches and rolling dunes.

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Tribal members living near the proposed site, meanwhile, are concerned about traffic and safety. They also complain they've been largely left in the dark about the plans.

Tribal leaders want to turn an unfinished tribal community center into a "high stakes" bingo and poker hall filled with electronic betting machines. Gov. Deval Patrick has sued in federal court to block the project.